CNN‘s Chairman and CEO, Chris Licht, has sought to put his mark on the network this year by ending the criticism of Trump which made the network too ideological. CNN has much to prove it’s re-establishing the channel’s original identity. The town hall appearance with a fox news competitor is intended to enhance CNN‘s credentials. CNN political director David Chalian maintained the network has approached the event as it would one for any candidate. Trump was the first president, running for the White House in more than a century, adding to the uniqueness of his appearance. Moderator Kaitlan Collins carries conservative bona fides as a former reporter for the Daily Caller, founded by Carlson. Still, she has not been viewed as a pushover.
The announcement of CNN‘s town hall with Trump engendered a backlash from both liberals and journalists who question the wisdom of putting Trump on air live. MSNBC host Mehdi Hasan argued against inviting Trump on, but failing that, CNN had an obligation to confront the former president about his record and his character. CNN carries the unique challenge of having Trump, who trashes governing norms and was impeached twice by the U.S. House, though not convicted in the U.S. Senate.
In conclusion, Wednesday’s CNN town hall with Donald Trump is carrying significant stakes in the aftermath of Tuesday’s verdict in E. Jean Carroll’s civil suit against him. The town hall is meant to demonstrate Trump’s independence from Fox News, which he has been irked at, but carries risks for CNN, which has been reestablishing its identity and still carries criticism for hosting the event. CNN maintains its approach to the event will be similar to any candidate forum, but Trump’s unique presidency and ongoing legal battles add a level of complexity.
<< photo by Jon Tyson >>
